Packaging recycling group against proposed deposit scheme in Scotland

A group that represents a number of food and drink companies has said that it does not support the idea of a deposit scheme in Scotland.

Zero Waste Scotland last week revealed its plans to consult on introducing a deposit scheme on drinks containers.

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But the Packaging Recycling Group Scotland (PRGS), which represents over 30 leading food and drink companies and industry bodies, said that recycling rates for drinks cans and bottles could be increased to 80% from the current 50% in Scotland without introducing a deposit scheme.

PRGS spokeswoman Jane Bickerstaffe said: “We do not support the introduction of a deposit return system in Scotland and recommend alternative proposals to promote recycling, reduce waste and tackle litter, which we believe will be more effective.

“Our members, including major brands, engage with thousands of customers daily and have an excellent track record over many years of leading recycling and litter prevention and reduction initiatives that work and engage the public.

“Scotland has an opportunity to lead the way in increasing recycling and tackling litter by combining the unrivalled knowledge and expertise of our sector, and building on the success of other local and national government initiatives, such as kerbside recycling. Only then can we find the most effective solution to meeting, and exceeding, ambitious government targets.

“There are great examples of recycling in Scotland, including existing kerbside and on the go recycling schemes that are already working.

“We need to develop and improve existing initiatives, rather than creating new ones, such as a deposit return system, which will be more costly for consumers and business, less convenient, address only a small proportion of litter and likely to undermine existing systems.”

Members of PRGS include Britvic, British Drinks Association, Coca-Cola Enterprises, Lucozade, Ribena Suntory, Rexam, A G Barr and Redbull.